Question
We have quite alot of Privet, and it has developed red spots and drying leaves in the last month. All the lower leaves are dropping, but the newer growth at the top has more mildewy appearance.

Answer
Claire,

There may be several things going on on the plants. The damage could be from insects called Thrips or there could be a soil bourne fungus called Anthracnose. I would recommend calling in a tree care company to visually inspect the plants and the soil to determine what is truly going on.

Good luck,
Ed Gulliksen